• If you suspect it’s the different taste that’s putting him off, try adding a trace of flavouring such as apple juice, fruit drink or electrolyte powders, Gatorade, etc., to his water at home. Do the same with water while you’re away to make the scent and taste more familiar.

• Researchers at the University of Guelph – Kemptville found that horses prefer water with neutral pH levels (7 or above) rather than acidic low pH levels (below 7) which give it a sour taste. Litmus paper can determine the pH level; note too that soft water is more acidic than hard water.

• Always use a familiar bucket, preferably the one he uses every day.

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